Get vaccinated against measles

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA PUBLIC HEALTH

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With confirmed cases of measles in Ontario, Algoma Public Health is holding clinics for those parents who need to get their children caught up on their vaccination.

The measles virus spreads easily from person to person and characteristic symptoms include fever and a red, blotchy rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body. 

Measles is a highly contagious disease and can be very serious, with complications including ear infections and pneumonia, and in rarer cases encephalitis and death.

The best protection against measles is vaccination with two doses of measles-containing vaccine.  In Ontario, 1 dose of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is given after the first birthday, with a 2nd dose given between 4-6 years of age. 

Children who have not received the recommended number of doses of MMR vaccine should be vaccinated in order to ensure they are fully protected against measles. 

In Sault Ste. Marie, measles immunization catch-up clinics are being held in April. 

For an appointment, please call 705-541-7085. 

Your child can also receive this free vaccine from their family health care provider. 

For appointments in Blind River, Elliot Lake, or Wawa, please call 1-866-402-1193. 

Appointment lines are open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

If you have any questions about MMR vaccine or your child’s immunization record, please call 705-759-5409 or 1-866-892-0172 ext. 5409 to speak with a nurse in the Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program.

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